Electrons now drive industrial competitiveness, molecules recede – The article argues that the shift from oil, coal and gas to clean, reliable electricity determines export strength, job creation and emissions cuts, with nations moving faster gaining advantage. [1]
China’s industry draws half its energy from electricity, India only a quarter – In 2024, about 50% of China’s industrial energy came from the grid versus roughly 25% for India; the U.S. and world average sit near 12%, while India’s share of green electricity is just 7‑8%, widening the competitiveness gap. [1]
Electrification yields a major efficiency boost over combustion – Electric motors convert over 90% of input power to work compared with less than 35% for internal‑combustion engines, meaning each percentage‑point rise in electricity use displaces disproportionately more fossil fuel. [1]
China’s decade‑long grid investment fuels rapid industry electrification – Since 2010 China poured capital into generation, ultra‑high‑voltage transmission, flexible substations and storage, raising steel production via electric‑arc furnaces from 44 Mt in 2010 to 106 Mt in 2024 (about 15% of output). [1]
India’s industrial electrification stalls due to legacy, reliability and policy gaps – On‑site combustion, uneven power quality and a policy focus on generation rather than industrial use keep industrial electricity use at ~25% and green share at 7‑8%, limiting decarbonisation. [1]
Policy roadmap calls for a national mission, grid spending and MSME support – Recommendations include a dedicated industrial electrification mission, higher annual grid investment, mandatory electrification in new parks, renewable‑linked EAF incentives, cement‑kiln pilots, CCUS hubs and financing for MSMEs to adopt electric boilers and induction furnaces. [1]